StephenNeal

NEAL, MR. STEPHEN L. Fruitport Mr. Stephen L. Neal, age 65, passed away Friday, May 10, 2013 at his home. He was born in Muskegon on April 24, 1948 to Lester and Eleanor (Hansen) Neal. Stephen was a U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He received numerous medals including the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, three bronze stars and the Purple Heart. Following his military service, Steve received his Bachelor's degree in Business from Grand Valley State College. He was employed as store manager of Burlington Coat Factory for 20 years until his retirement in 2012. He was an avid University of Michigan and Detroit Tigers fan. He also enjoyed camping, gardening, reading and watching sports. He married the former Sue Ann Cole in Muskegon on July 24, 1971. She survives him along with three children, Dominic (Theresa) Neal of Paradise, MI, Jaime (Leah) Neal and Joshua (Sarah) Neal of Muskegon; four sisters, Sandy Gardner and Anne Jacobson, both of Nunica, Diane (Jim) Kammers of Twin Lake and Debra (Ralph) Cincush of Montague; and his very special friend, Samantha. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Ricky Neal, and a brother-in-law, Phil Gardner. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held Thursday, May 16, 2013 at 2:00 PM at The Lee Chapel 6291 S. Harvey St. (231) 798-1100 with Rev. Gerald Hagans officiating. Military rites will be held under the auspices of the Muskegon County Council of Veterans of Foreign Wars. VISITATION will be one hour prior to the service. MEMORIAL contributions may be made to the Johnson Family Cancer Center or Mercy VNS & Hospice Services. Sign the online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.